How to Apply as a Mature Student
All applications are through the Central Applications Office (CAO). See www.cao.ie Applications for full-time courses starting in September 2011 open on 1st November 2010 and close 1st February 2011. The late closing date is 1st May.
Entry Requirements
(1) Mature applicants who have the minimum entry requirements (Leaving Cert. / relevant FETAC cert. / equivalent overseas qualification) can secure a place the same as other applicants, using the points gained. See our Prospectus for details of what minimum entry requirements apply to each course. If you tick the Special Category F (Mature) box on the CAO application form, you will be given an opportunity to enter by the route at (2) also.
(2) Mature applicants who do not have the minimum entry requirements – if you tick the Special Category F (Mature) box on Page 3 of the CAO application form, you will be considered on your merits as a Mature applicant: your life and work experience, knowledge and skills, and any special interests will be taken into account. Provide as much relevant information as possible on page 4 of the application form. In particular, demonstrate the following:
- Preparation for higher education (recent courses/study)
- Any relevant experience or training
- Awareness of the demands of full-time higher education (workload; finances; impact on personal and social circumstances etc.)
- Career goals
- Research on content of courses applied for
10% of places on each course are reserved for Mature applicants. Applicants may be invited for interview.
See the “Application Form (Part B) Special Categories” pages of the CAO handbook for further important information about your application.
Advanced Entry
If you have relevant prior learning and/or educational attainment you may be eligible for entry to the 2nd or even the 3rd year of a course. Applications are made directly to the Institute. See www.ittdublin.ie for more information.
